Baird Capital Partners Acquires Eckler’s

TITUSVILLE, Fla., July 16, 2012

Baird Capital Partners (BCP), the US-based buyout fund of Baird Private Equity, announced today the acquisition of Eckler’s, the premier multi-channel, direct-to-consumer marketer of restoration parts and accessories for classic and enthusiast vehicles. Based in Titusville, Fla., Eckler’s holds the top market position in six of the eight primary product lines in which it competes, including Chevrolet Corvette, Classic Chevy’s from the 1950’s, Camaro, Impala, El Camino and Ford Sedan. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Originally focused on Corvettes, Eckler’s offers a wide product line including replacement and restoration parts, performance upgrade parts and accessories. The company primarily serves automotive enthusiasts who enjoy restoring classic cars and place importance on maintaining the appearance and performance of their automobiles.

“We have closely followed the direct-to-consumer hobby and enthusiast industry and believe Eckler’s is well positioned in this sector, focused on serving consumers in the classic car segment,” said BCP Chairman and Partner Gordon Pan. “Classic car enthusiasts tend to be very stable, persistent and loyal to their cars, which creates a strong business model. The focus on providing the highest quality parts and exceptional customer service to those interested in restoring and maintaining popular classic automobiles drives customer loyalty, builds an excellent reputation and creates opportunities for growth. We are excited to partner with Eckler’s in driving the company’s next stage of development.”

“This transaction represents an exciting next step for our organization,” said Eckler’s CEO Matt Jordan. “We look forward to working closely with Baird Capital Partners on expanding our market position while remaining focused on offering the highest grade parts and service our customers have come to expect.”

As part of the transaction, Pan and BCP Operating Partner Harry Schulman will join Eckler’s Board of Directors.

Baird Private Equity, the global private equity group of Robert W. Baird & Co. (Baird), makes venture capital, growth equity and buyout investments in smaller, high potential companies in the United States through Baird Venture Partners and Baird Capital Partners, in China through Baird Capital Partners Asia, and in Europe through Baird Capital Partners Europe. Baird Private Equity has a global team of investment and operations professionals across the United States, Europe and Asia, including a team of operating professionals in Asia. Baird Private Equity and its affiliates have raised and managed over $2.8 billion in capital and invested in more than 255 companies since the 1980s. For more information, please visit bairdprivateequity.com.